THE MESSAGES OF THE ELEVEN SYMBOLICAL ACTIONS OF JEREMIAH PART FOUR

PART FOUR: The Potter and the Clay Jer. 18:1-10

 

In this dramatic action of Jeremiah, the clay represented the people of Judah.

Human beings are made of clay; clay is dust mixed with water. We are of the dust but the water of the Spirit of God has given us life through faith in Christ. Clay is of no great value in itself, but it can become something great if molded by the right hands for the right purpose. 2 Tim. 2:19-21; 2 Corinth. 4:7; Ps. 103:14

 

LESSONS:

Person: Our lives are not in the hands of some invisible “force” or blind “fate”; they are in the hands of a Person- Almighty God. God is not just our Creator; He is our Father, and He has a personal concern for our lives. He is the Potter. Jer. 18:5-6; Isa. 64:8

Power: Clay cannot mold itself; only God has the power to guide our lives; God is sovereign over all people. We cannot be blessed if we argue with Him or try to tell Him what to do. Of course, this does not mean that God is to blame for the sins of men or the failures of nations. Jer. 18:6-10; Rom. 9:20-24; Isa. 45:9

 

Plan: The potter has a perfect plan for the clay; God has a perfect plan for our lives. We cannot see the finished product, but He promises us that it is wonderful. Jer. 29:10-11; 1 Cor. 2:9; Eph. 2:10; Phil. 1:6

 

Patience: The potter patiently works the clay, tenderly molding its shape. God patiently directs in our lives, seeking to fulfill His will. Often He uses the hands of others to help shape us- parents, teachers, fellow Christians, even those who persecute us. Gen. 50:20; Rom. 8:28; Jam. 1:3-4